When will you start bleeding and how long will it last?

Mifepristone alone usually does not cause any side effects before taking Misoprostol, although some women may experience light bleeding or nausea. After using Misoprostol you should expect bleeding and cramps. Bleeding usually starts within four hours of using the pills, but it sometimes starts later. For some women, the bleeding and cramping and also other side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and hot flashes or fever may occur shortly after taking Misoprostol. Bleeding is often the first sign that the abortion has begun. If the abortion continues, bleeding and cramps become more severe. Bleeding is often heavier than a normal menstruation, and there can be clots. The longer the pregnancy has developed, the heavier the cramps and the bleeding will be. If the abortion is complete, the bleeding and the cramps diminish. The moment of abortion can be noticed with a peak of heavier blood loss and more pain and cramps.

Normally the bleeding will continue lightly for one to three weeks after the abortion, but times may vary. The normal menstrual period usually returns after four to six weeks.

The heaviest bleeding typically occurs 2-5 hours after using misoprostol and usually slows down within 24 hours. The most intense cramping and bleeding generally lasts for 3-5 hours, but it can last for less or more time. Some women bleed heavily for up to 48 hours and may pass clots days or even weeks after taking the misoprostol. This is common and is not dangerous, unless you soak through more than two maxi pads per hour for 2 hours or more or when you loose heavy cloths bigger than an orange. It is normal for your body to take time to empty the uterus completely. Every woman’s body is different.